Friday, 11 September 2015

Decathlon have sent me a sample of their Quechua Arpenaz 10L rucksack to test and review. I couldn't resist asking for a sample when Decathlon informed me that they would be selling the Quechua Arpenaz 10L in UK stores for just £2.49. Yes £2.49. I actually replied to ask if it was a typo. I've used the Quechua Arpenaz 10L over the last month in various scenarios. I've used it for cycle commuting, mountain biking, hill walking, dog walking, picnics, football, day trips and flat packed inside larger bags for longer trips.

Quechua Arpenaz 10L arrives from Decathlon.

How it looks...

I think the red version of the rucksack looks fantastic. The red version with grey finishes has a classy look of a more expensive rucksack. When I have worn the rucksack around others they have immediately enquired with interest. The Red along with a few other brighter colours also have the added bonus of visibility when running or cycling on roads. There are plenty of colours to choose from including Black, Red/Grey, Dark Green/Green, Burgundy/Orange, Yellow, Blue/Purple, Grey/Blue, Pink, Blue/Orange, Blue/Light Blue.

Wide range of colour options.

How it functions...

I had my doubts about the ten litre capacity but I was pleasantly surprised to find I could easily fit in all my gear for bike rides and summer hill walking. As well as the main compartment there is a useful and discreet front zipped pocket for quick access to personal items such as keys, wallet and phone. There is a strong handle loop on the top of the bag for carrying, storing on a hook or hanging off your handle bars. The bottom of the bag is made of stronger and thicker material to avoid wear and abrasion.

Quechua Arpenaz 10L loadaed with bike ride gear.

I have comfortably carried the rucksack 'two strapped' on my back with no issues. Smaller capacity, less materials and less carried gives the obvious benefit of less weight and therefore greater comfort. I must admit to having some difficulty using the rucksack 'one strapped' where the rucksack regularly falls off my shoulder. I think this could be resolved if the straps were made a little grippy and wider where they cross the shoulder. Two strapped though no problems at all and even full of heavier gear the rucksack was surprisingly comfortable despite its minimal design. The back has the typical soft layer of sponge to soften the back area. As with other lightweight rucksacks it also helps to pack the softer items at the back of the rucksack.

Quechua Arpenaz 10L loaded with doggy items for dog walk.

Price & Overall...

At twice the price the Quechua Arpenaz 10Lwould still have been a bargain. At just £2.49 it is an absolute steal. I have to be honest and say that costing just £2.49 I expected it to be uncomfortable, badly made with cheap materials and lacking any thoughtful design. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was comfortable, practical, well designed and good looking. Its very hard to be picky about such a great product when it costs less than a pint, but it could be improved would be slightly wider straps so that it sat better when one strapping and possibly a bit of reflective material for visibility. It is a brilliant rucksack. Since introducing it to friends and family several of them have bought them. At £2.49 you can buy several, once for each member of the family. Click the link to grab yourself a bargain... Quechua Arpenaz 10L.